You might already know that Open Enrollment, offered each fall, provides us all with the chance to review our healthcare plans and make any necessary changes. Then, the decisions you have made during Open Enrollment will apply to the following year’s coverage. But what if your needs change outside of the Open Enrollment period? Is it ever possible to change your healthcare coverage?\r
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Actually, yes. If you experience what is called a Qualifying Life Event, you will be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. During this time, you can indeed alter your healthcare plan or enroll in a new one.\r
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So, what are these Qualifying Life Events?\r

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  • You lose your healthcare coverage – from job loss, expiration of a student plan, or lost eligibility for Medi-Cal

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  • You turn 26 and “age out” of your parent’s plan

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  • You get married or divorced

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  • Adding a new child to the family (through birth or adoption)

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  • A death in the family

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  • You move to a different zip code, and your plan does not offer service there

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  • You’re a student, and move to or from the location of your school

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  • You’re a migrant worker, and move to or from your place of work

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  • Moving into, or out of, a shelter or some other type of transitional housing

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  • Release from jail or prison

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  • Changes in your income, that change the type of coverage for which you are eligible

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  • You become a US citizen

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  • You gain membership in a recognized Native American tribe

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  • Starting or ending your Americorps service

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What do you do next?\r
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If you believe you have experienced a Qualifying Life Event, and you wish to change your healthcare coverage, give us a call. We can review the details with you and help you determine the health insurance coverage options that are available to you. But don’t delay; your Special Enrollment Period only lasts 60 days from the date of the Qualifying Life Event. Get started right away, so that you have time to evaluate your options and choose the right plan for your needs.